Unlocked Bootloader Vulnerability in SINAMICS S200
Act Now9.8SSA-787280Mar 11, 2025
Attack VectorNetwork
Auth RequiredNone
ComplexityLow
User InteractionNone needed
Summary
A specific production range of SINAMICS S200 devices contains an unlocked bootloader that allows an attacker to download and execute untrusted firmware without authentication. The bootloader does not verify firmware integrity or source, enabling arbitrary code execution with full device control. Siemens has not released a firmware patch for this vulnerability. The company recommends implementing compensating security controls and contacting local customer service to determine if your devices are in the affected production batch.
What this means
What could happen
An attacker with network access could load malicious firmware onto the SINAMICS S200 drive, enabling complete control over motor speed, direction, and torque—potentially causing equipment damage, safety hazards, or process disruption in manufacturing or utility applications.
Who's at risk
Operators of manufacturing automation, material handling, or utility drive systems that use SINAMICS S200 variable frequency drives (VFDs) should assess their network exposure. This affects any industrial process relying on motor speed/torque control via the S200.
How it could be exploited
An attacker on the network sends a firmware download command to the S200 drive's bootloader. The bootloader does not authenticate the firmware source or verify its integrity, so the attacker's malicious code executes with full device privileges. Once loaded, the attacker controls motor operation.
Prerequisites
- Network access to the SINAMICS S200 device (typically Ethernet or serial port)
- No credentials required
- Device must be in bootloader mode or accepting firmware updates
Remotely exploitableNo authentication requiredLow complexityNo patch availableCritical CVSS score (9.8)Affects industrial control equipment
Exploitability
Low exploit probability (EPSS 0.2%)
Affected products (1)
ProductAffected VersionsFix Status
SINAMICS S200All versionsNo fix (EOL)
Remediation & Mitigation
0/4
Do now
0/2WORKAROUNDDisable or restrict remote firmware update capabilities on the S200 if not operationally required; require manual/local firmware updates only
WORKAROUNDContact your local Siemens customer service to determine if your specific S200 production batch is affected and to obtain additional countermeasures or mitigations
Mitigations - no patch available
0/2SINAMICS S200 has reached End of Life. The vendor will not release a patch. Apply the following compensating controls:
HARDENINGImplement network segmentation to isolate SINAMICS S200 devices on a dedicated control network with strict firewall rules limiting firmware upload traffic
HARDENINGApply defense-in-depth measures: disable unnecessary network services, restrict device communication to known engineering workstations, and monitor firmware update attempts
CVEs (1)
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